Jeffery Simmons Scouting Report

NAME: Jeffery Simmons

SCHOOL: Mississippi State

CONFERENCE: SEC

POSITION: Interior Defensive Lineman

CLASS: Junior

RECRUITMENT RATING: 5-star

HT: 6’3

WT: 301 lbs

Ball Get Off: Possesses exceptional first step quickness that allows him to shoot off the ball. Shown the ability to overwhelm his opponents with his burst. Also know how to time up the snap count to enhance his jump.

Hand Usage: Works extremely well with his hands as a pass rusher. Understands which leverage landmarks to attack to get his opponents off kilter and in position to shed. Even though hands aren’t overly violent, they are lightning quick and lethally efficient. Also uses his hands well when defending the run. However, would like him to be more consistent with his run fits. Will occasionally get too comfortable being body to body with blockers.

Pad Level and Flexibility: Strong lower body that is utilized when anchoring the LOS. Rarely ever gets blown off the ball, even against double teams. His pad level will wane at times. Too many instances where he pops straight up out of his stance on pass rush reps. Which makes it harder for him to implement counter moves. Hips may be a little stiff. Would like to see him create more consistent separation with his arms. Stack and shed technique could be cleaner as well.

Motor: Motor is always running hot. Never gives up on plays, hustle is non stop.

Pass Rush Ability: Explosive get off, nuanced technique, brute strength, and a non stop motor made Simmons one of the most dominant interior pass rushers in college football. He almost always has a pass rush plan, utilizing a variety of swipes, swims, clubs, etc. Learning how to set up his opponents based on their tendencies would take his game to the next level.

Awareness: Usually does a good job of identifying blocking schemes and attacking them accordingly. Gets caught off guard against double teams every now and then.

Best Trait: Pass Rush Ability

Worst Trait: Pad Level

Best Film: Kansas State (2018)

Worst Film: Alabama (2018)

Jeffery Simmons projects best as 3 technique in even front and could play base end in an odd front if called upon. His penetrating and pass rushing skills will be highly coveted in today’s pass heavy NFL. He could really round out his game if he works on lowering his pad level and cleans up his run fits. Simmons has pro bowl potential regardless and should reach it by year 3.